The semiconductor technology industry is a fast-growing and exciting field in the world of technology. As new generations of semiconductor technology progress, including advancements in fields such as power electronics, microelectronics, medical diagnostic tools, and automotive electric hybrids, the future of semiconductor technology will continue to evolve and broaden at a rapid pace.
Semiconductor Technology: A Focus on Near-Term Research
Today, one area of semiconductor technology that our researchers at Florida Polytechnic University are focused on is evaluating and addressing the issue of how we can harvest indigenous energy from clean sources. Advancements in this research will enable us to better protect our environment and ensure sustainability.
In today’s environment, factors such as industrialization, increased vehicle population and the presence of fast spreading viruses and bacteria, have impacted our atmospheric air and water. Currently, our environment’s air quality for breathing is very low, which has the potential to cause many carcinogenic health problems. Similarly, clean drinking water free from toxins, and other contaminants need to be researched for quality life on Earth.
At Florida Polytechnic University, we have focused a segment of our research efforts on using sunlight (solar energy) and photocatalytic semiconductor oxide technology to help address and evaluate these environmental issues. Overall, the purpose of this research is to mitigate airborne and waterborne contaminants, which will help enable a pollution free environment.
Semiconductor Technology Research and The Long-Term Impact
Looking to the future of semiconductor technology and its impact on the environment, our faculty and students at Florida Polytechnic University are focused on the evolving relationship between solar energy and semiconductor technology. Researching this area will enable our scientists to find pathways for energy independence and potentially contribute affordable and novel technologies to help address global warming and its long-term effects.
In addition to potential environmental benefits, advancements in semiconductor technology research have the potential to benefit a number of industries in a variety of fields. A few of these fields include: auto manufacturers, architecture and construction, chemical and gas manufacturers, and community based NGOs.
How Students of Today will Help Define the Future of Semiconductor Technology
Students of today are at a particular advantage because of their pre-established familiarity with many technology advancements, i.e. iPads, iPhones, nano-cars, and many others. While this general familiarity and awareness are helpful, it’s imperative that the future leaders in semiconductor technology understand the underlying principles and applications associated with semiconductor technology. For example, terminologies such as quantum tunneling, quantum computing, photo-lithography and related phenomena are considered vital to foster the R&D of semiconductor technology.
Undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in semiconductor technology, have the opportunity to participate in research experiences and will receive hands-on training using state-of-the-art tools, such as the High Resolution Electron Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy and the Atomic Force Microscopy. Exposure to this research and education will not only help shape the semiconductor leaders of tomorrow, but will help enhance the current research on semiconductor technology.
Learn more about Florida Polytechnic’s degree program for semiconductor technology with a electronics technology degree.
For more information on Florida Polytechnic University and other available degree programs, contact a Florida Polytechnic University faculty member today.
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